They took part in a 5km run on Sunday in aid of the cancer appeal set up by Marina Dalglish, wife of former Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish.

The Santa Dash was raising funds for breast cancer and attracted more than 2,400 entrants, according to organiser Alan Rothwell.

It is the first time the run has taken place. "I'm delighted with the numbers from a standing start," he said.

The race also featured in a short movie devised by students from West Derby Comprehensive School, Liverpool, helped by Liverpool film maker Colin McKeown.

The plot centres on two thieves escaping from a job dressed as Santa and suddenly finding themselves in a race full of people dressed as Father Christmas.